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Introducing the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible

by Keith Cornett on March 5, 2013

Chevrolet has already released several batches of photos showing the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible over the last coupe of days, but now that the Geneva Motor Show is finally here, we get a chance to learn all the details regarding the seventh generation convertible.

The 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible features a fully electronic fabric top that can be operated with the key fob. Sales of the new Convertible Stingray model will begin in late 2013.

The Coupe and Convertible Stingrays are born the same, with a new aluminum frame that’s 99 pounds lighter than the current steel frame. Both models also receive the LT1 V8 that delivers an estimated 450 horsepower and 450 lb-ft of torque. In fact all the performance technology and capabilities introduced on the Corvette Stingray Coupe carry over the Stingray Convertible. The only structural changes are for the folding top and repositioned safety belt mounts.

And if you’re wondering where the intake vents are on the rear for cooling the transmission and differential? The Stingray Convertible has them too. The functional cooling vents are still there but the air intakes are integrated into the underbody of the Convertible.

Chief Engineer Tadge Juechter says that “every Corvette is designed at the outset as an open car.” He adds, “The new Stingray is no different, with the coupe and convertible designed to excel in any situation – be it your daily commute, a drive across the continent, or charging through twisting backroads.”

And how grand it would be to charge through some twisting backroads with the top down in the 2014 Corvette Stingray Convertible.

When the top is up, the Corvette Stingray Convertible offers a refined driving experience. The thick three-ply fabric features sound-absorbing padding and glass rear window help to keep outside noise to a minimum while maintaining a premium appearance.

Put the top down, and you’re driving a new American icon – the Corvette Stingray roadster.

“The convertible has been a part of the heart and soul of Corvette since the very beginning in 1953,” said Ed Welburn, GM vice president of global design. “With the all-new Corvette Stingray, we designed and developed the coupe and convertible simultaneously. As a result, the Corvette Stingray offers an open-top driving experience with no compromise in performance, technology or design.”

The tonneau cover features dual black accent panels behind the seat and the signature “waterfall” brings the exterior into the interior, complete with the 7th generation crossed-flags logo.

The new Convertible top is now completely hands free. No more do you have to manually release the t-bar. In addition to its rocker button which has been moved to the left of the steering wheel, the top can also be activated with the key fob. Chevy also says the top can be opened or closed on the go, at speeds of up to 30 mph.

Like the Corvette Stingray Coupe, the Convertible can be ordered with the Z51 Performance Package which includes an electronic limited-slip differential, dry-sump oiling system, integral brake, differential and transmission cooling and the unique aero package that further improves the stability of the car at high speeds.

Expect the new Corvette Stingray Convertibles for sale in late 2013.

In addition to the US market, Chevrolet will also be selling the left-hand-drive models in Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, Japan and Russia.

According to Chevrolet, Corvettes for export vary only in equipment required to accommodate the respective markets’ regulations, such as lighting, headlamp washers and outside mirrors. No word from Chevy if Corvettes sold in Russia also come with a dash cam.

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